Vaginismus: Causes, symptoms and how to deal with it

In the first episode of the new season of The Local Sex Shop, Mikaella talks with Maja about vaginismus. What is it, can it be treated, and what is dating like when you have vaginismus?

Vaginismus is a disorder which concerns the involuntary contraction of the vagina, and despite an estimated 5 to 70% of people with a vagina having it, we never learn about it. In this episode, we talk about the origins of this condition, where to get a diagnosis, treatment methods, dilators, misconceptions about vaginal health, dating and partner disclosure.

About the guest: Maja has a BSc in Psychology (University of Groningen) and is currently finishing her Forensic and Legal Psychology Master (Erasmus University of Rotterdam), but is looking to redirect herself into psychosexology soon. On the side, she has been a long-term member of Let’s Talk About Sex Groningen (LTAS).

Maja speaks about vaginismus from personal experience with and shares her own self-practice tips and exercises that have helped her improve her condition.

Recommendations:
Gina app (information on vaginismus)
The History of Sex (book)
My body keeps your secret (book – addresses sexual trauma)
Instagram accounts: aginismus network, unconventional vagina, ungirluncensored
Sexual Wellness Podcast: episode on vaginismus
For more sex education in Groningen, check out @the_sx_ed_hub on Instagram!